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This BBQ chicken pineapple grilled cheese is what I turn to when we need something fast indulgent and satisfying on a weekend. It blends smoky barbecue chicken juicy pineapple and loads of melty cheddar into one ridiculously good sandwich. My kids call it Hawaiian grilled cheese and they ask for it every Saturday without fail
I made this on a whim one afternoon using what we had in the fridge and now it’s become our most requested sandwich. Even my friend’s teenager who usually only eats frozen food loves it
Ingredients
- Thick sourdough bread: provides structure and keeps the sandwich from getting soggy
- Shredded cooked chicken: makes this fast especially with rotisserie leftovers
- BBQ sauce: gives smoky sweetness use a quality brand
- Fresh pineapple: adds brightness and balance avoid overly sweet canned types
- Sharp cheddar cheese: brings strong flavor and the perfect melt grate it fresh for best results
- Unsalted butter: makes that classic golden crispy crust on the outside
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Heat your oven to 350 degrees. Place cooked chicken in a baking dish and coat with half the BBQ sauce. Bake for 20 minutes then let cool slightly and shred with two forks. Mix with remaining sauce for even coating
- Butter the Bread:
- Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice. Lay slices butter side down so you can easily build the sandwiches
- Build the Layers:
- Sprinkle one quarter cup of shredded cheddar on four slices of bread. Spoon chicken mixture evenly on top. Add three thin slices of pineapple to each then sprinkle more cheese and top with remaining bread butter side up
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly spray with cooking spray. Cook two sandwiches at a time for about three to four minutes until golden brown. Flip and grill for another one to two minutes watching closely
- Serve Hot:
- Cut each sandwich diagonally and serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the bread is crisp. These are best enjoyed right from the skillet
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I love the pineapple here it reminds me of Hawaiian pizza but better because everything is gooey and toasted. One of my favorite moments was watching my son take a bite and say this is amazing between mouthfuls
Storage Tips
The assembled sandwiches don’t store well but you can make the chicken mixture ahead and refrigerate it for three days. Reheat gently before using in fresh sandwiches for best results
Ingredient Substitutions
Try smoked turkey instead of chicken if that’s what you have. Monterey jack or pepper jack cheese also work great if you want a different flavor. Apple slices can be swapped for pineapple for a sweet crunch
Serving Suggestions
Pair these with crispy kettle chips and a tart pickle spear. For something lighter add a green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sandwich
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Cultural Context
This sandwich borrows from Hawaiian pizza with its pineapple and smoky base. It’s a uniquely American comfort dish with tropical inspiration and a backyard barbecue twist
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use leftover chicken instead?
Yes Use about 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce before assembling the sandwich.
- → What type of pineapple works best?
Fresh pineapple rings have the best texture but well-drained canned pineapple is also a great option.
- → Can I use different cheese?
Sharp cheddar is ideal but Monterey Jack gouda or pepper jack are also good choices if they melt well.
- → How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Use thick slices of bread and fresh ingredients. Pat pineapple dry and avoid overloading the sandwich with sauce.
- → What should I serve with it?
Chips and pickles work well. A simple green salad adds freshness and balance to the rich flavors.
- → Can I store and reheat leftovers?
The sandwich does not store well but the chicken filling keeps for a few days and can be used in quesadillas or wraps.